Richard L. Bitely

Richard L. Bitely, of Potsdam, NY passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on June 11, 2024, surrounded by family. He was predeceased by Ann M.(Squillace) Bitely, his loving wife of 52 years, his brothers John, Phillip, Orsemus, Alex Bitely, sister Olive Jane (Bitely) Brown, and his parents Orsemus Durward Bitely and Elizabeth Grace (Staples) Bitely of Rome, NY. Richard is survived by his sisters Cathy (Bitely) Davis and Elizabeth (Bitely) Gleasman of Rome, NY; and three children Ronald (Ron) Bitely of Greenville,SC; Randolph (Randy) & (Rebecca) Bitely of Delmar, NY; Russell (Russ) & (Julie) Bitely of Webster, NY. He was adored by his grandchildren Brad Bitely, Hannah Bitely, Kamryn Bitely, Brennan Bitely, Emilyn Bitely, Shaelyn Bitely, Tyler Bitely, and Brayden Bitely. He was also beloved by two great grandchildren Kylie Bitely and Layla Strong, and many nieces & nephews.

By trade, Richard was a professional photographer for SUNY Potsdam for 35 years. He was known for his dry humor, his charm, his love of hockey, hunting, traveling, enjoying a good IPA, and his talent for photography. Richard’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His unwavering dedication to his family, his passion for life, and his generous spirit will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the staff at Baywinde – Sage Harbor and all the care givers for their support, compassion, and kindness.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to:

American Heart Association, PO Box 840692, Dallas, TX 75284-0692 or www.heart.org ;

American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023 Merrifield, VA 22116-7023 or http://www.diabetes.org ;

Leukemia Research Foundation, 191 Waukegan road, Suite 105 Northfield, Illinois 60093 or www.info@leukemiarf. org .